Big Lagoon Rancheria Requests Delay on AB 831 Implementation

The Big Lagoon Rancheria has recently appealed to California lawmakers to delay the enactment of Assembly Bill 831. This proposed legislation has sparked significant concern among tribal leaders, who argue that it endangers tribal sovereignty and could adversely affect the economic stability of smaller tribes. In an August 25 letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee, signed by Tribal Chairperson Virgil Moorehead, the tribe emphasized the need for a more inclusive consultation process with all tribes that might be affected by the bill.

Rather than opposing the regulation of sweepstakes-style gaming outright, the Big Lagoon Rancheria calls for a collaborative approach, highlighting how the bill underwent substantial changes in the Senate without meaningful input from tribal governments. As it stands, AB 831 proposes to ban many forms of online gaming, actions which Moorehead contends violate promises for government-to-government consultation and trust. Furthermore, he warns that the bill’s broad language could implicate not only operators but also service providers supporting online platforms, extending state jurisdiction into Indian Country potentially in violation of federal law.

The financial implications of AB 831 are a key concern for smaller, rural-based tribes that rely on online gaming to fund essential services such as healthcare, housing, and education. Critics argue that the bill could eliminate these crucial revenue streams without providing viable alternatives or assessing the potential economic losses for these communities. The Big Lagoon Rancheria, along with the Kletsel Economic Development Authority, is urgently calling for the exploration of better options that would safeguard consumers while also enabling tribes to sustain their economic health.

The recent Senate Appropriations Committee hearing saw a unified stand against the measure from various organizations and stakeholders, while no one testified in support of the bill. Critics, including industry representatives, underscored the potential for significant state revenue — from $200 million to $300 million annually — through the regulation and taxation of sweepstakes gaming. The committee is set to reconsider the measure later this week, and both advocates and opponents are preparing to present their arguments. Leaders from the Big Lagoon Rancheria remain steadfast in their call for a thoughtful, inclusive legislative process that respects the rights and economic stability of California’s tribal communities.